How to apply for a tree removal permit in San Jose, California

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from San Jose's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 4-6 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 12.1" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Ordinance-size: single trunk 38+ inches circumference (~12.1 inches diameter) at 4.5 feet. Multi-trunk combined 38+ inches. On multifamily/commercial lots, ANY tree requires permit. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage trees designated by City Council for size, age, species rarity, or historical significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in San Jose: Property owner or authorized agent.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with species, DBH/circumference (single-trunk 38+ inch or multi-trunk 38+ inch combined), condition/health assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan; heritage tree applications additionally require ISA Certified Arborist findings. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist for heritage trees.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Department of Transportation - Landscaping Services. Permit fee: $310.00. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/planning-building-code-enforcement/planning-division/tree-removal-permits.

    View the full San Jose ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 (one 15-gallon tree per permitted tree removed). One 15-gallon replacement tree per removal on residential projects.

Where to file

Department of Transportation - Landscaping Services

(408) 794-1901

Other California permit walkthroughs

See California permit fees compared — San Jose's $310.00 fee in context.

See California replacement obligations compared — how San Jose's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See California heritage criteria compared — how San Jose's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your San Jose permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits San Jose's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment